West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced new eligibility rules for the Annapurna Yojana, targeting the next installment of the Rs. 3,000 monthly payment scheduled for August. The announcement aims to streamline the distribution of funds by excluding certain categories of beneficiaries while expanding access for others.
Under the revised guidelines, women earning more than Rs. 10,000 per month are no longer eligible for the cash assistance. The state government has also implemented strict asset-based exclusions. Women owning more than 50 decimals of land in the seven municipal corporation areas are being removed from the list. Additionally, the same asset limit applies to women and families living in three-room houses in rural areas.
Adhikari stated that this shift in policy directs resources toward the most vulnerable populations. By adjusting the parameters for income and property ownership, the administration ensures that the financial aid reaches those who genuinely require it. The changes come as the state moves forward with the mega revision of the scheme’s operational framework.
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Expanded Access for Specific Groups
While some restrictions have tightened, eligibility has been expanded in specific sectors. Women currently receiving the Divyang pension or those covered under the PM-KISAN scheme can now qualify for the assistance. The government has also relaxed housing restrictions for rural applicants and land-holding limits in urban centers to accommodate these new categories.
Verification processes are now in full swing. From August 17, payments are being credited only to women whose details have been verified. The administration has set a timeline for the August payouts, which are scheduled to go out between August 17 and 20. Priority is being given to women who submitted their applications by July 10.
Officials reported that so far, 1.45 crore eligible women are receiving the monthly Rs. 3,000. Adhikari stated that a total of 1.8 crore applications were received between June and July 31. The verification process has been thorough, resulting in the removal of approximately 30 lakh names during the initial payout phase on June 3.
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Reasons for the removal of names during verification included the beneficiaries being deceased, having shifted locations, or being absent from their registered addresses. The state government has emphasized that these exclusions are necessary to prevent fraud and ensure the efficient use of state funds.
To address concerns regarding non-payment or disputes over eligibility, the government is launching a new grievance and verification portal around August 20. This digital platform will allow applicants to flag issues or report ineligible beneficiaries. Mahila Morcha leaders will be available to provide local technical support for those who require assistance handling the new system.
